Yumeya, the acclaimed manga artist behind Shadows of Kyoto, has teamed up with writer Maya Miyazaki to launch a new manga series titled Warui no wa Shakai da (It’s Society’s Fault). The series, which debuted on January 24th, is published in Coamix’s Monthly Comic Zenon.
A Dark Romance in the Underbelly of Society
Warui no wa Shakai da delves into the unconventional romance between Maki, a woman navigating life, and Tomonori, a man who often covers her expenses. However, Tomonori’s actions are accompanied by a peculiar habit of uttering the word “namapo,” hinting at his involvement in the darker aspects of society. The narrative explores their complex relationship, set against the backdrop of societal issues and the challenges faced by those living on the fringes.
The Creative Minds Behind the Manga
Yumeya, known for their distinct horror and comedy style, gained recognition with Shadows of Kyoto ( Ura Kyoto), a manga that explores chilling tales from haunted locations in Kyoto. Shadows of Kyoto was initially published on the Comic Tatan website, running from August to November 2020, with a compiled book volume released in December 2020. The English version of the manga was published by Titan Comics on January 14, 2025.
Maya Miyazaki, the writer for Warui no wa Shakai da, is a seasoned writer with a diverse portfolio. She is known for works such as Holy Knight, which was released in English in 2014 by Digital Manga Publishing’s Project-H imprint and inspired a two-part OVA in 2012. She also wrote Gokujyo.: Tales from the Gokuraku Girls Dormitory. Miyazaki’s strength lies in creating characters and stories that resonate with emotion and social commentary.
Shadows of Kyoto: A Journey Through Haunted Tales
Before collaborating on Warui no wa Shakai da, Yumeya had captivated readers with Shadows of Kyoto. This single-volume manga presents a collection of unsettling stories set in famous, and often haunted, locations around Kyoto. Places such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kifune Shrine, and Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, which are usually seen as tourist destinations, become the stage for eerie tales of ghosts and bloodshed.
A Glimpse into the Dark Side of Kyoto
Shadows of Kyoto offers a unique perspective on the city, revealing the dark histories hidden beneath its beautiful exterior. The manga combines elements of horror, suspense, and Japanese folklore to create a captivating reading experience. It was initially published in Japan and later licensed by Titan Manga for English-speaking audiences.
Miyazaki’s Previous Works and Impact
Maya Miyazaki’s previous work, Holy Knight, showcases her storytelling abilities and has garnered a significant following. The manga was adapted into an OVA, highlighting its impact on fans and critics alike. This adaptation further demonstrates the versatility of Miyazaki’s work, proving that her creative vision translates well across different media.
Exploring Themes and Genres
Miyazaki’s writing often tackles mature themes, delving into complex relationships and societal issues. Her storytelling abilities make her a respected figure in the manga world, and her collaboration with Yumeya on Warui no wa Shakai da is highly anticipated.
The New Collaboration: What to Expect
The collaboration between Yumeya and Maya Miyazaki on Warui no wa Shakai da brings together two unique creative voices. Yumeya’s distinct artistic style, combined with Miyazaki’s storytelling prowess, creates a compelling narrative that blends romance with social commentary.
A Unique Blend of Art and Story
The new manga explores the developing relationship between Maki and Tomonori, incorporating elements of mystery and societal critique. Readers can expect a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking, with the potential to leave a lasting impact.
Where to Find Their Work
- Warui no wa Shakai da: Currently available on Coamix’s Monthly Comic Zenon platform.
- Shadows of Kyoto: Available as a compiled book volume published by Titan Comics, with a release date of January 14, 2025.
- Holy Knight: Originally published by Digital Manga Publishing’s Project-H imprint in 2014.
Availability and Access
Both physical and digital copies of their works may be available through various online retailers and bookstores. Readers are encouraged to check their preferred manga outlets for availability.
The Impact on the Manga Scene
The collaboration between Yumeya and Maya Miyazaki is expected to garner significant attention within the manga community. Their combined talents have created a project that promises to offer a fresh and unique take on the medium, further solidifying their positions as influential figures in the industry.
A Testament to Creative Collaboration
The launch of Warui no wa Shakai da showcases the power of creative collaborations in pushing the boundaries of manga storytelling. Fans are eagerly anticipating the development of the story and the complex relationship between the main characters, and the series is poised to be a standout release in 2025.
